Appalachian State University is bringing one of its own back home. Former Carolina Panthers interim head coach Steve Wilks has officially returned to his alma mater, accepting a role as a special assistant to App State Athletics.

Wilks, who starred as a defensive back for the Mountaineers in the late 1980s and early 1990s, is no stranger to the program's winning culture. His coaching journey has been nothing short of impressive—he was a key part of the Carolina Panthers staff that pushed all the way to a Super Bowl appearance in 2015, and later served as the team's interim head coach in 2022.

In his new role, Wilks will be connecting directly with fans and alumni during the Mountaineer spring tour, kicking off at the end of this month. It's a full-circle moment for a player and coach who bleeds black and gold, and a move that should energize the App State community. Whether you're a die-hard Mountaineer or just love a good comeback story, this is one to watch.